A battery management system is described that includes a controller configured to control electrical charging and discharging of a plurality of blocks of a battery. The battery management system also includes an inter-block communication network including a master node and a plurality of slave nodes arranged in a ring-type daisy-chain configuration with the master node. The master node is coupled to the controller and configured to initiate all command messages sent through the inter-block communication network and terminate all reply messages sent through the inter-block communication network. The plurality of slave nodes is bounded by an initial node coupled to the master node and a last node coupled to the master node.
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1. A method comprising: causing, by a controller of a battery management system, a master node of an inter-block communication network to transmit, via a first node from a plurality of slave nodes of the inter-block communication network, an original command to an addressed node from the plurality of slave nodes; after causing the master node to transmit the original command: receiving a copy of the original command from a second node after the original command has been transmitted through the plurality of slave nodes; transmitting, by the addressed node after receiving the original command, a first reply in a first direction through the plurality of slave nodes; receiving, by the controller, via the second node from the plurality of slave nodes, a copy of the first reply from the addressed node; transmitting, by the addressed node after receiving the original command, a second reply in a second direction through the plurality of slave nodes, wherein the second direction is opposite from the first direction; and receiving, by the controller, via the first node, a copy of the second reply from the addressed node, wherein the copy of the second reply received by the controller is duplicative of the copy of the first reply received by the controller.
This invention relates to battery management systems (BMS) with inter-block communication networks, addressing the challenge of ensuring reliable command and reply transmission between a controller and multiple slave nodes in a distributed battery system. The system includes a master node and multiple slave nodes connected in a network, where the master node transmits commands to addressed slave nodes. The controller causes the master node to send an original command via a first slave node to an addressed slave node. After transmission, the controller receives a copy of the original command from a second slave node, confirming the command's propagation through the network. The addressed node then transmits a first reply in one direction through the slave nodes, and the controller receives a copy of this reply via the second slave node. The addressed node also transmits a second reply in the opposite direction, and the controller receives a copy of this reply via the first slave node. The second reply copy is identical to the first reply copy, ensuring redundancy and reliability in communication. This method enables bidirectional verification of command and reply transmissions, improving fault detection and system robustness in battery management applications.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of slave nodes are arranged as a chain in a ring-type daisy-chain configuration with the master node, the plurality of slave nodes being bounded by an initial node coupled to the master node and a last node coupled to the master node, the method further comprising transmitting, after causing the master node to transmit the original command, the original command around an entirety of the ring-type daisy-chain configuration to the second node and then to the master node.
This invention relates to a network communication system involving a master node and multiple slave nodes arranged in a ring-type daisy-chain configuration. The problem addressed is efficient command propagation in a network where a master node must transmit a command to multiple slave nodes in a structured and reliable manner. The system includes a master node and a plurality of slave nodes connected in a closed loop, forming a ring. The ring is bounded by an initial slave node connected to the master node and a last slave node also connected to the master node. The method involves the master node transmitting an original command to the initial slave node. The command is then propagated sequentially through each slave node in the ring until it reaches the last slave node, which transmits it back to the master node. This ensures the command is transmitted around the entire ring, allowing each slave node to receive and process the command in a controlled sequence. The ring configuration ensures redundancy and reliability in command distribution, as the command traverses the entire loop before returning to the master node. This approach is useful in applications requiring synchronized or sequential command execution across multiple nodes in a closed-loop network.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first and second replies travel in opposite directions round the entirety of a ring-type daisy-chain configuration.
A method for signal transmission in a ring-type daisy-chain network configuration addresses the challenge of efficient data propagation in circular communication systems. The method involves transmitting a first reply signal in one direction around the ring and a second reply signal in the opposite direction. Both signals traverse the entire loop, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all nodes in the network. This bidirectional approach enhances reliability by providing redundant paths for data transmission, reducing the risk of signal loss or corruption due to node failures or link disruptions. The method is particularly useful in applications requiring robust and fault-tolerant communication, such as distributed computing, sensor networks, or telecommunications systems. By utilizing opposite directional paths, the system can detect and mitigate errors, improve synchronization, and maintain consistent data flow across all interconnected nodes. The technique leverages the inherent redundancy of the ring topology to optimize performance and ensure seamless communication in dynamic or high-demand environments.
4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising transmitting, by the addressed node, the first and second replies in opposite directions around a ring-type daisy-chain configuration.
A method for data transmission in a ring-type daisy-chain network configuration addresses the challenge of efficient and reliable communication in circular topologies. The method involves a node receiving a request from an initiating node and generating two distinct replies in response. The first reply contains a first set of data, while the second reply contains a second set of data. These replies are transmitted in opposite directions around the ring, ensuring redundancy and fault tolerance. The method ensures that if one path fails, the other can still deliver the data, improving reliability in ring networks. The node may also determine whether to transmit the replies based on predefined criteria, such as network conditions or priority settings. This approach enhances data integrity and minimizes latency in circular network architectures.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first node is an initial node and the second node is a last node.
A system and method for processing data in a networked environment involves managing nodes within a distributed system to optimize data flow and resource utilization. The technology addresses inefficiencies in data routing and processing, particularly in systems where nodes must handle large volumes of data with varying latency and reliability constraints. The method includes identifying a first node as an initial node and a second node as a last node within a network, where the initial node serves as the starting point for data transmission and the last node represents the final destination. The system ensures that data is routed efficiently between these nodes, minimizing delays and maximizing throughput. Additional features may include dynamic adjustment of node roles based on network conditions, load balancing, and fault tolerance mechanisms to maintain system reliability. The method may also incorporate error detection and correction protocols to ensure data integrity throughout the transmission process. By defining clear roles for nodes within the network, the system improves overall performance and reduces the risk of bottlenecks or failures. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring high-speed data processing, such as cloud computing, distributed databases, and real-time analytics.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first node is a last node and the second node is an initial node.
A method for managing data in a distributed system involves organizing data nodes in a specific sequence to optimize data processing. The method addresses inefficiencies in distributed systems where data traversal or processing is hindered by suboptimal node ordering, leading to delays or increased computational overhead. The invention ensures that data nodes are arranged in a structured manner to enhance performance, particularly in scenarios requiring sequential access or processing. The method includes a first node and a second node, where the first node is the last node in a sequence and the second node is the initial node. This arrangement allows for efficient traversal from the end of the sequence back to the beginning, enabling faster data retrieval or processing. The method may also involve additional nodes positioned between the first and second nodes, forming a continuous chain. The nodes may be configured to store data, execute computations, or facilitate communication between system components. By defining the first node as the last node and the second node as the initial node, the method ensures that data traversal can start from either end of the sequence, improving flexibility and reducing latency. This approach is particularly useful in distributed databases, blockchain systems, or other applications requiring bidirectional data access. The method may further include mechanisms to dynamically adjust node positions based on system requirements, ensuring optimal performance under varying conditions.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein each slave node from the plurality of slave nodes is associated with a different respective block from a plurality of blocks of a battery.
A distributed battery management system monitors and controls individual battery blocks using a master node and multiple slave nodes. Each slave node is assigned to a distinct battery block, enabling localized monitoring of voltage, temperature, and other parameters. The master node collects data from all slave nodes, analyzes the battery's overall state, and issues control commands to optimize performance, balance charge, and prevent overcharging or overheating. This decentralized approach improves accuracy, reduces communication latency, and enhances fault tolerance by isolating issues to specific blocks. The system ensures efficient energy distribution, prolongs battery life, and maintains safety by dynamically adjusting parameters based on real-time data from each block. The invention addresses challenges in large-scale battery systems, such as those used in electric vehicles or grid storage, where centralized monitoring may be inefficient or unreliable. By assigning dedicated slave nodes to individual blocks, the system provides granular control and monitoring, improving overall system reliability and performance.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein each slave node draws power from a respective block from a plurality of blocks of a battery.
Power management and distribution in a distributed computing system. A method for distributing power to nodes in a system. The system includes a plurality of blocks forming a battery. Multiple slave nodes are present, each requiring power. The method involves each slave node drawing its power from a specific, respective block within the battery. This ensures dedicated power allocation from individual battery blocks to individual slave nodes. This architecture allows for granular control and monitoring of power consumption at the slave node level, potentially improving efficiency and reliability by isolating power sources for different components.
9. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: determining, by the addressed node, that the original command is addressed to the addressed node; and closing, by the addressed node, a switch that completes a voltage detection circuit for measuring a voltage level of a battery block of a battery stack.
A method for battery management in energy storage systems addresses the challenge of efficiently monitoring individual battery blocks within a larger battery stack. The method involves a communication protocol where a command is transmitted to a specific node in the battery stack, which then verifies whether the command is intended for it. Upon confirmation, the addressed node activates a switch to complete a voltage detection circuit, enabling precise measurement of the voltage level of the associated battery block. This ensures accurate monitoring of each block's state, which is critical for maintaining battery health, balancing charge distribution, and preventing overcharging or discharging. The method supports scalable and modular battery systems by allowing individual nodes to independently process commands and perform measurements without centralized control, improving system reliability and efficiency. The voltage detection circuit's completion is a key step in enabling real-time voltage assessment, which is essential for advanced battery management functions such as state-of-charge estimation and fault detection. The approach minimizes communication overhead and enhances the responsiveness of the battery management system.
10. A battery management system comprising: a controller configured to control electrical charging and discharging of a plurality of blocks of a battery; and an inter-block communication network including a master node and a plurality of slave nodes arranged in a ring-type daisy-chain configuration with the master node, wherein the master node is coupled to the controller and configured to initiate all command messages sent through the inter-block communication network and terminate all reply messages sent through the inter-block communication network, wherein the plurality of slave nodes are bounded by a first node coupled to the master node and a second node coupled to the master node, wherein the controller is configured to control the inter-block communication network by: causing the master node to transmit an original command via the first node to an addressed node from the plurality of slave nodes; and after causing the master node to transmit the original command: receiving, by the master node, a copy of the original command from the second node after the original command has been transmitted through the plurality of slave nodes; receiving, by the master node and via the second node from the plurality of slave nodes, a copy of a first reply from the addressed node; and receiving, by the master node and via the first node, a copy of a second reply from the addressed node, wherein the copy of the second reply received by the master node is duplicative of the copy of the first reply received by the master node, and wherein the addressed node is configured to: transmit the first reply in a first direction through the plurality of slave nodes after receiving the original command; and transmit the second reply in a second direction through the plurality of slave nodes after receiving the original command, wherein the second direction is opposite from the first direction.
A battery management system monitors and controls the charging and discharging of multiple battery blocks. The system includes a controller and an inter-block communication network with a master node and multiple slave nodes arranged in a ring-type daisy-chain configuration. The master node connects to the controller and initiates all command messages while terminating all reply messages. The slave nodes form a loop between a first node and a second node, both connected to the master node. The controller manages communication by sending an original command from the master node through the first node to a specific addressed slave node. After transmission, the master node receives a copy of the original command from the second node after it propagates through all slave nodes. The addressed node sends a first reply in one direction through the slave nodes and a second reply in the opposite direction. The master node receives both replies—one via the second node and the other via the first node—ensuring redundancy by comparing the duplicative replies. This dual-path communication ensures reliable data transmission and error detection in battery management operations.
11. The battery management system of claim 10 , wherein, after the master node transmits the original command, the plurality of slave nodes transmits the original command around an entirety of the ring-type daisy-chain configuration to the second node and then to the master node.
A battery management system for monitoring and controlling multiple battery cells in a ring-type daisy-chain configuration includes a master node and multiple slave nodes connected in a loop. Each slave node is associated with a battery cell and communicates with adjacent nodes to relay data and commands. The system ensures reliable communication by allowing the master node to transmit an original command to the first slave node, which then propagates the command sequentially through all slave nodes in the ring. After the command circulates the entire loop, it returns to the master node, confirming successful transmission and reducing the risk of data loss or miscommunication. This closed-loop structure enhances fault detection and system robustness by verifying command delivery and enabling bidirectional communication. The system may also include features such as error detection, data aggregation, and adaptive control to optimize battery performance and safety. The ring topology ensures continuous communication flow, even if a single node fails, by allowing alternative paths for data transmission. This design is particularly useful in high-reliability applications where uninterrupted monitoring and control of battery cells are critical.
12. The battery management system of claim 10 , wherein the first and second replies travel in opposite directions round the entirety of the ring-type daisy-chain configuration.
This Battery Management System (BMS) controls electrical charging and discharging for multiple battery blocks. It comprises a controller and an inter-block communication network structured as a ring-type daisy-chain. The network includes a master node, connected to the controller, and several slave nodes. These slave nodes are bounded by a "first node" and a "second node," both connected to the master node, forming a complete communication loop. The controller initiates communication by instructing the master node to send an original command via the first node to a specific addressed slave node. After the command has passed through the slave nodes, the master node receives a copy of this original command from the second node, confirming its full loop traversal. Upon receiving the original command, the addressed slave node then transmits two replies: a first reply in one direction and a second, duplicative reply in the opposite direction. These first and second replies travel along the *entirety* of the ring-type daisy-chain configuration. The master node subsequently receives a copy of the first reply via the second node, and a copy of the second (duplicative) reply via the first node, providing redundant communication. ERROR (embedding): Error: Failed to save embedding: Could not find the 'embedding' column of 'patent_claims' in the schema cache
13. The battery management system of claim 10 , wherein each slave node from the plurality of slave nodes is associated with a different respective block from a plurality of blocks of a battery.
A battery management system monitors and controls a battery composed of multiple blocks, each block containing one or more battery cells. The system includes a master node and multiple slave nodes, where each slave node is assigned to a distinct block of the battery. The master node communicates with the slave nodes to collect data such as voltage, current, and temperature from each block, ensuring balanced charging and discharging. The system may also detect faults, such as overvoltage or overheating, and take corrective actions like disconnecting affected blocks. The slave nodes may be distributed across the battery to minimize wiring complexity and improve signal integrity. The system optimizes battery performance, extends lifespan, and enhances safety by continuously monitoring and managing individual battery blocks.
14. The battery management system of claim 10 , wherein each slave node draws power from a respective block from a plurality of blocks of a battery.
A battery management system monitors and controls multiple battery blocks in a distributed architecture. The system includes a master node and multiple slave nodes, each connected to a respective battery block. Each slave node independently draws power from its assigned battery block, allowing for localized power management. The master node communicates with the slave nodes to coordinate charging, discharging, and monitoring operations across the battery system. This distributed approach improves efficiency, reduces communication overhead, and enhances fault isolation by enabling individual block-level control. The system is particularly useful in large-scale battery applications, such as electric vehicles or energy storage systems, where centralized management may be impractical or inefficient. By distributing power management tasks to slave nodes, the system ensures balanced charging, detects faults at the block level, and optimizes overall battery performance. The design also supports scalability, allowing additional battery blocks and slave nodes to be integrated without significant modifications to the master node. This architecture enhances reliability and adaptability in dynamic power environments.
15. The battery management system of claim 10 , wherein the addressed node is configured to: determine that the original command is addressed to the addressed node; and close a switch that completes a voltage detection circuit for measuring a voltage level of a battery block of a battery stack.
A battery management system monitors and controls battery stacks, particularly for electric vehicles or energy storage systems. The system addresses challenges in accurately measuring individual battery cell voltages within a stack, which is critical for ensuring safety, performance, and longevity. Traditional systems often struggle with signal interference, high resistance, or inefficient voltage detection, leading to inaccurate measurements. The system includes a network of nodes, each connected to a specific battery block within the stack. When a command is sent to measure a battery block's voltage, the addressed node verifies that the command is intended for it. Upon confirmation, the node activates a switch to complete a voltage detection circuit. This circuit measures the voltage level of the battery block with high precision, ensuring reliable data for the battery management system. The node may also handle communication with other nodes or a central controller to coordinate measurements across the entire stack. This approach improves measurement accuracy, reduces signal noise, and enhances overall battery monitoring efficiency. The system is particularly useful in high-voltage applications where precise voltage detection is essential for safety and performance optimization.
16. A battery management system comprising: a controller configured to control electrical charging and discharging of a plurality of blocks of a battery; and an inter-block communication network including: a master node and a plurality of slave nodes arranged in a ring-type daisy-chain configuration with the master node, wherein the controller is configured to cause the master node to transmit an original command to an addressed node via an initial node; the master node being coupled to the controller and configured to initiate all command messages sent through the inter-block communication network and terminate all reply messages sent through the inter-block communication network; and the plurality of slave nodes being bounded by the initial node coupled to the master node and a last node coupled to the master node, wherein the master node is configured to receive a copy of the original command from the last node after the original command has been transmitted through the plurality of slave nodes, wherein the addressed node is configured to: transmit a first reply in a first direction through the plurality of slave nodes after receiving the original command; and transmit a second reply in a second direction through the plurality of slave nodes after receiving the original command, wherein the second direction is opposite from the first direction, and wherein the master node is configured to receive a copy of the first reply and a copy of the second reply that is duplicative of the copy of the first reply received by the master node.
The battery management system is designed to control the electrical charging and discharging of multiple battery blocks. The system includes a controller that manages these operations and an inter-block communication network that facilitates data exchange between the controller and the battery blocks. The communication network is structured as a ring-type daisy-chain configuration, consisting of a master node and multiple slave nodes. The master node, connected to the controller, initiates all command messages and terminates all reply messages. The slave nodes are arranged in a loop, with the initial node connected to the master node and the last node also connected back to the master node. When the controller sends a command to a specific battery block (addressed node), the master node transmits the original command through the initial node and across the slave nodes in sequence. The last node then sends a copy of the original command back to the master node, ensuring the command reaches all nodes. The addressed node responds by transmitting a first reply in one direction through the slave nodes and a second reply in the opposite direction. The master node receives both replies, which are duplicative, ensuring data integrity and redundancy. This dual-directional reply mechanism enhances reliability in communication between the controller and the battery blocks.
17. The battery management system of claim 16 , wherein the controller is able to control the inter-block communication system in either: a one-way master on bottom messaging scheme in which the controller causes the master node to transmit, via the initial node, the original command to the addressed node from the plurality of slave nodes and receive, via the last node, a reply from the addressed node; or a one-way master-on-top messaging scheme in which the controller causes the master node to transmit, via the last node, the original command to the addressed node and receive, via the initial node, the reply from the addressed node.
Battery management systems. This invention addresses the control of inter-block communication within a battery management system, particularly concerning how a controller directs messaging between a master node and a plurality of slave nodes. The system is designed to manage communication pathways to and from addressed slave nodes. The controller has the capability to operate in two distinct messaging modes. The first mode, termed a "one-way master on bottom" scheme, involves the controller instructing the master node to send a command. This command is transmitted initially through a designated "initial node" to reach the specific addressed slave node. Subsequently, a reply from that addressed slave node is received back through a designated "last node" to the master node. The second mode, a "one-way master-on-top" scheme, also begins with the controller directing the master node to transmit a command. However, in this mode, the command is routed initially via the "last node" to reach the addressed slave node. The reply from the addressed slave node is then received back through the "initial node" by the master node. These two modes allow for flexible and directed communication control within the battery management system.
18. The battery management system of claim 16 , wherein each slave node from the plurality of slave nodes is associated with a different respective block from the plurality of blocks, and wherein each slave node from the plurality of slave nodes comprises respective balancing and monitoring circuitry.
A battery management system monitors and balances multiple battery blocks in a battery pack. The system includes a master node and multiple slave nodes, each connected to a different battery block. Each slave node contains dedicated balancing and monitoring circuitry to regulate the charge of its associated battery block. The master node communicates with the slave nodes to collect data and control the balancing process. This distributed architecture allows for independent monitoring and balancing of individual battery blocks, improving efficiency and safety in battery management. The system ensures uniform charge distribution across the battery pack, preventing overcharging or discharging of individual blocks. The balancing circuitry in each slave node can adjust the charge level of its respective block based on real-time data, while the monitoring circuitry tracks voltage, current, and temperature to maintain optimal battery performance. This approach enhances the lifespan and reliability of the battery pack by maintaining balanced charge levels and detecting potential issues early. The system is particularly useful in high-performance applications where precise battery management is critical.
19. The battery management system of claim 16 , wherein the addressed node is configured to: determine that the original command is addressed to the addressed node; and close a switch that completes a voltage detection circuit for measuring a voltage level of a battery block of a battery stack.
Battery management systems. This invention addresses the need for efficiently measuring voltage levels within a battery stack in a battery management system. The system comprises nodes, where a specific node is configured to receive commands. Upon receiving a command, the addressed node first verifies that the command is indeed intended for it. Once confirmed, the addressed node proceeds to close a switch. This action of closing the switch serves to complete a voltage detection circuit. This completed circuit then enables the measurement of the voltage level of a particular battery block within the overall battery stack.
20. The battery management system of claim 16 , wherein each slave node from the plurality of slave nodes draws power from a respective block from the plurality of blocks of the battery.
A battery management system monitors and controls a battery composed of multiple blocks, each containing one or more battery cells. The system includes a master node and multiple slave nodes, where each slave node is connected to a respective block of the battery. Each slave node draws power from its assigned block to perform monitoring and control functions, such as measuring voltage, current, and temperature, as well as balancing the charge across the cells. The master node communicates with the slave nodes to collect data and issue commands, ensuring the battery operates safely and efficiently. The system is designed to distribute power consumption evenly across the battery blocks, reducing the load on any single block and extending the battery's lifespan. This decentralized approach improves reliability and scalability, allowing the system to adapt to different battery configurations. The system may also include features for fault detection, thermal management, and state-of-charge estimation to enhance overall performance.
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November 14, 2019
January 25, 2022
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